Pregnancy is an exciting voyage, and many moms look forward to the experience. However, some moms also have pregnancy fears or worries about their pregnancy, whether they're based on myths or actual facts.
We'll go deeper and learn more about the different fears and worries that Pinoy moms have about their pregnancy.
What pregnancy fears do Pinoy moms have?
1. Paglilihi
Paglilihi is a belief that's prevalent among Filipinos. They believe that if a pregnant woman becomes obsesses over something, whether it's food, an actor, an animal, or even a color, it will affect their baby's appearance.
The truth is that there's really no connection between paglilihi and your baby's looks. Your baby's appearance will depend on you and your husband's genes, and looking at ugly things won't suddenly make your child ugly.
2. Being stressed out
Let's face it, being pregnant isn't easy. A lot of moms can become really stressed out during this time. However, you shouldn't worry too much about stress, so long as it's not excessive.
Having moderate or regular amounts of stress can contribute to your baby's development as this helps your baby tone its nervous system. It can also accelerate their development.
So there's no need to worry too much about being stressed out. But you also need to make sure that you're getting enough rest!
3. Birth defects
This one is somewhat related to paglilihi. It's not uncommon to see news reports wherein the mother attributes her child's deformity to paglilihi.
The truth of the matter is that birth defects aren't something that moms should be scared about. The most important thing that moms should remember is to eat healthy, and to follow all of the advice that their doctor gives. It's also important for moms-to-be to go to their monthly checkups. That way, the doctor can monitor the child's progress closely.
4. Breastfeeding worries
This is something that almost all first-time moms worry about. They worry that they won't have enough milk. They're concerned that they won't have the time to breastfeed their baby. Or they're worried they won't know how to breastfeed.
However, the reality is that all of these things can be worked on, through practice, or by going to a breastfeeding class. Breastfeeding isn't something that all moms get right the first time; it takes a while to get used to. And it's something that you get better at the more you do it.
The important thing is that you're doing your best as a mother. If you don't have enough milk to provide your baby, you can always go to a milk bank. Or you can boost your own supply by drinking supplements.
After consultation with your doctor, you can also opt for formula feeding. You shouldn't feel less of a mother if you're having trouble breastfeeding. All that matters is that you're doing your best for your child.
5. Miscarriage
Miscarriages can and do happen. They can be devastating for moms who have been trying for so long to have a child.
You may be surprised to learn that miscarriages aren't as common as you might think. For women younger than 35, the chances of having a miscarriage are around 10-12%. For 35 to 39 year old women, it's around 18%. And for women 40-44 years old, it rises to 34%.
What's more, once your baby reaches week six or seven – or the time they start having a heartbeat – the odds of a miscarriage drastically drop to 5%. So if you're already a couple of months into your pregnancy, you shouldn't be worried about it!
6. Painful childbirth
We won't try to sugarcoat things and tell you that childbirth isn't painful. It is, but it's not as bad as it seems.
Nowadays, there are a lot of things that moms can do if they want to help ease the pain of childbirth. Some moms opt to have an epidural to help lessen the pain. Other moms who don't want medication can opt for a water birth or various relaxation techniques.
It's important to discuss these concerns with your doctor before you give birth, so that they can offer you options. Then you can decide what best suits you and your baby.
Source: philstar.com
Photo from: maxpixel.freegreatpicture.com
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